Return their wealth! Ruto vows justice in alleged Gachagua family estate dispute

Composite image of President William Ruto and his former DP Rigathi Gachagua. HANDOUT

President William Ruto has pledged justice for the family of the late Nyeri Governor Nderitu Gachagua amid an ongoing dispute over the administration of the deceased’s estate involving his brother, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Speaking on Sunday in Nakuru, the President said the matter is both a legal and moral issue, invoking biblical teachings on the protection of widows and orphans and vowing that justice would prevail.

“Continue with the insults, but the wealth of widows and orphans you must return… Widows and orphans cannot defend themselves, but we shall speak on their behalf,” he said.

Susan Kihika supported the President’s stance, raising concerns over the handling of the estate and urging that the interests of the widow and children be safeguarded.

She described the situation as distressing and called for firm action.

On Saturday, Gachagua defended the process, stating that the administration of the estate is being carried out in accordance with his late brother’s will.

“The law of succession is handled by courts of law. If anybody is dissatisfied with what is happening in a succession implementation, you go to court,” he said.

He explained that the dispute relates to the estate of his late brother, who passed away in 2017 and left a detailed will outlining how his wealth should be distributed.

According to Gachagua, the will identified beneficiaries and their respective shares, with the estate set to be distributed among 21 individuals after the sale of assets and settlement of liabilities.

“Some were getting 10 per cent, others 5 per cent, others 2 per cent or 3 per cent, all clearly indicated in the will,” he said.

According to Gachagua, three executors were appointed to oversee the process, including the deceased’s lawyer, a long-time friend, and a family member, with instructions to implement the will as written.

Gachagua said that after the will was read, all beneficiaries confirmed their agreement to its contents.

“The court adopted the will and allowed the executors to go ahead and execute it in accordance with the wishes of the deceased person,” he said.

He added that the process was completed about eight years ago, with properties sold, debts settled, and proceeds distributed directly to beneficiaries’ accounts as per the will.

Gachagua maintained that the succession process was lawful and transparent, stressing that disputes should be addressed through proper legal mechanisms.

He urged that any concerns related to inheritance be resolved through courts rather than public or political platforms.

The family of the late Nderitu Gachagua has since appealed to the State to intervene in the matter. In a statement dated March 27, 2026, the family said they had opted to go public after attempts to resolve the issue privately did not succeed.

“After careful and thoughtful consideration, we… have made the very difficult decision to go public on matters concerning our rightful inheritance,” the statement read.